In your backyard: 10 things to do in Cape Town for R50 or less

By Samantha Luiz

26 March 2016

The Mother City can be pricey - here's how to explore Cape Town without breaking the bank.

Whether you are new to the city or a seasoned Capetonian, the Mother City always has new experiences to offer. Here are ten really great activities that will allow you and your family to explore the city without breaking the bank.

1. Try ice skating at Cape Town’s first outdoor skating rink

Here's a fun way to beat those hot Cape Town afternoons. Located at the Rotary Blue Train Park in Moulle Point, the synthetic outdoor skating rink is a first for the country. While it is limited to children under 12 years old, parents can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Table Mountain and the sea as they supervise. Cost: R30 for 30 mins, R50 for 1 hour Address: Next to The Light House, Beach Rd, Mouille Point

2. Catch a show at the Labia Theatre

The Labia Theatre is the oldest independent "art-repertory" in South Africa. With four screens, the theatre showcases indie movies, foreign films, historical cinema and other alternative films at reasonable admission prices. See what's currently showing here. Cost: All shows cost R45, student/Fanatics/Seniors/Children/Labia Movie Cards R40 Address: 68 Orange Street in Gardens You may also like: 9 things to do in Durban that won’t cost you a cent

3. Take a stroll through the Company’s Gardens

Go on a self-guided walk through the Company’s Gardens, situated right in the heart of the Mother City. It is home to many landmarks including the oldest cultivated pear tree in South Africa (believed to have been planted in 1652), historic statues, a beautiful rose garden designed and built in 1929. Also, watch out for the adorable squirrels!

Cost: Free

Address: Queen Victoria Street - right next to the South African Parliament

4. Satiate curious minds at the Cape Town Science Centre

The Cape Town Science Centre is a world of discovery for the whole family. PHOTO: Facebook

As their website rightfully puts it, the Cape Town Science Centre "is a world of discovery under one roof." A visit to the Centre is guaranteed to keep kids and adults alike both entertained and informed.

Cost: R45; Pensioner R25; Group (10 or more) R40 pp

Address: 370B Main Road, Observatory

5. Participate in First Thursdays

Explore the wealth of art exhibitions and cultural attractions the Mother City has to offer. PHOTO: Facebook

Explore the city's rich creative hub on the first Thursday of every month. On this day, participating art galleries, museums, and restaurants keep their doors open till late so you and I can experience the wealth of culture found in the Mother City. For more information, visit their website here". Cost: Free You may also like: 10 spectacular ‘secret’ beaches in South Africa

6. Go hiking

Whether you're an experienced hiker or a curious beginner, there's a hiking trail for you. Lion's Head is a good place to begin if you're unsure. Featuring on the National Georgraphic's World’s Best Hikes list, this trail offers quite a thrill. Get fit while taking in the breathtaking views the Mother City has to offer. But before you do, check out these hiking safety tips here. Cost: Free

7. Sharpen your reading skills at the Cape Town Central Library

A visit to this library offers quite an experience. Situated in the city centre, the library boasts of a large collection of books, newspapers and magazines that go back decades, DVDs and so on. For the little ones, there's the reading programme, story telling plus many other activities.

9. Visit one of the the Iziko Museums

Explore South Africa's rich cultural history at one of the many Iziko Museums located in Cape Town. From stone tools dating centuries ago to fossils of insects and fish, these museums undoubtedly offer a fun way to be enlightened. To find the Iziko Museum closest to you, check out their website. Cost: Adults R20; 6-18 years R10; SA Students and pensioners R10; Family Ticket (2 adults & 2 children) R50

10. Take part in City Walk Saturdays

Similar to First Thursdays, the City Walk Saturdays event happens once a month. A great way to explore the Mother City's with other city dwellers, the walk starts at the Company’s Gardens, continues down St George’s Mall to Waterkant Street. There's also fun activities for the little ones, including face painting and chess board games. Visit their Facebook page to stay updated on the latest event.